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Living Free - April 2, 2014

"So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death." - Romans 8:1-2 NLT

Thoughts for Today

Victims of verbal abuse suffer constant criticism and condemnation from their abuser. They often continue suffering the effects of this abuse long after it has ended. They tend to criticize and condemn themselves and others, behaviors they learned from those who criticized and condemned them.

Repentance is the key to breaking this destructive pattern. You are never called to repent for the abusive acts that happened to you … but you do need to repent of the self-destructive behaviors that have developed in your life. Only through repentance can you grow in your relationship with the Lord.

Consider this …

Self-condemnation leads to a miserable and ineffective lifestyle. Unjust criticism and condemnation of others hinder the development of relationships. Repentance involves bringing your failures to the cross. As you receive Christ's forgiveness, healing of the past can begin. You can begin to understand how special you are to Jesus. And you can learn to see yourself and others through his eyes of understanding and love.

Prayer

Father, I had no control over the abuse I suffered in the past, but I realize now that I do have control over where I choose to go with my life from here. I've made a lot of bad choices and developed some wrong attitudes and behaviors. Please forgive me. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for seeing me as someone special. Help me to see myself … and others … through your eyes of understanding and love. In Jesus' name …